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Equipment & Gear => All Other Gear => Topic started by: ruttnbuck on November 22, 2015, 09:51:06 PM


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Title: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: ruttnbuck on November 22, 2015, 09:51:06 PM
 :sry:so I'm thinking about investing in a mountain bike to get back into different areas next year so I can spend more time hunting and less time trying to get to my spot.  I've heard the cogburn bike is the way to go but don't want to spend 2 grand on a bike, just wondering if there where any other bikes that would work . I know can go to Walmart and get one for 100 bucks but I don't want something that's gonna fall apart on the way down the hill. 
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Turner89 on November 22, 2015, 10:03:36 PM
I'd check out craigs list.  You will be better off getting an older quality bike for 2-300 $ than spending that much on a new bike.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: 2labs on November 22, 2015, 10:10:31 PM
The mountain bike crowd is a lot like the kuiu  clowns. Gotta have the latest, greatest 
most expensive.
Get on Craigslist and grab a really nice bike for a fraction of new. :tup:
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: DRobnsn on November 22, 2015, 11:20:27 PM
Agreed craigslist is your friend. A few things to consider. Getting the proper size bike will help on long rides and or hauling heavy loads. Hydraulic disc brakes are a major plus. 27 speed is what I prefer, you may not always use all the gears but it's very nice to have those low gear splits on steep hills. Along with that, quality shifters is a must. Depending on your fitness level you may want a full or front only suspension. Budget full suspension bikes often don't come with rear lockout shocks and that can soak up allot of your foward pedaling effort especially on steep climbs. One more thing you'll run into is the 26 vs 29 inch tire. 29's climb over sticks,ruts and branches better than 26s but I've found the 29 to be bulkier feeling in handling and seems to require more physical exertion to operate. Hope this helps.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: McCRIZZLEY on November 22, 2015, 11:25:39 PM
Definitely opt for more gears. I have tried using my downhill bike with only 8 gears.... I ended up pushing it up all the hills.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: fish vacuum on November 23, 2015, 01:38:35 AM
"just wondering if there where any other bikes that would work"
Yeah, lots of them. I wouldn't spend thousands on a bike designed for hunting. That seems silly. Any decent mountain bike will work, depending on what you expect to do with it.
What kind of terrain do you want to ride? When I hunt on my bike I'm only riding gravel roads. I have a 29er with front suspension and disc brakes. I wouldn't change a thing. 29" wheels make for a smoother ride. My pack rides in a cheap, second hand baby trailer. Any deer I shoot gets boned out.
I've never riden a fat bike, but it seems the point of them is riding in soft terrain like mud and snow.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Skyvalhunter on November 23, 2015, 05:39:26 AM
The mountain bike crowd is a lot like the kuiu  clowns. Gotta have the latest, greatest 
most expensive.
Now there's a volatile comment categorizing a group of people into a certain mold based on ones choice
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Stickerbush on November 23, 2015, 06:09:25 AM
I have a trek front suspension 21 spd I think. It was like 400 brand new years ago, works great
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Labs07 on November 23, 2015, 07:49:16 AM
Bikes are a great way to go!  I have a 20 yr old Klien full suspension bike that works great for the most part but I think I would prefer a hard tail bike with just front suspension.  Defiantly get more gears for the reasons stated above.  I think those fat tire bikes look great and can carry a big load.  If you could find a used one of those that might be the ticket.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Special T on November 23, 2015, 08:00:42 AM
Kain Rides a Huffy and is a straight up assassin!

Find a good deal on a used bike. NOW is actually a great time to get a good deal since most people arnt riding. Hard tail with a fork up front is the way to go. Full suspension robs your pedal power up hill but the front fork helps the ride a lot.  :twocents:
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: ruttnbuck on November 23, 2015, 11:09:26 AM
Perfect!  I'll check out Craigslist and do some exploring and see what I can find. I
 Appreciate the info guys,  have a good Thanksgiving! !
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: ghosthunter on November 23, 2015, 11:14:56 AM
 :chuckle:

Here's mine.

Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: fish vacuum on November 23, 2015, 09:30:53 PM
For about 1/3 the price of one of those cogburn fatbikes, you can get a brand new 29" trek with hydraulic disc brakes and adjustable front suspension.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: ruttnbuck on November 23, 2015, 09:40:03 PM
Mostly I'll just be riding up and down gravel roads , I just want to be able to ride into a area and not be burnt out by the time I get up there.  So a Walmart cheapy isn't going to cut it unless I can find a 27_29 speed there.  I did see a  decent trek 29 inch on Craigslist , gonna check into it more tomorrow. 
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Thorny on November 23, 2015, 09:47:48 PM
I highly recommend getting a super padded seat if you haven't ridden a bike in 20 years like me.  A buddy and I rode 15+ miles into an area this year.  When we got back to the truck we both couldn't sit down for at least a week.  We both used quality bikes (a Trek and a K2) with new seats, however the seats really bruised the bones in our bums!

--OUCH!!

Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: KFhunter on November 23, 2015, 09:51:28 PM
 :yeah:



I sat too long on a bike seat and the "boys" went to sleep.  Ever wake up with your arm numb and tingling to the point of pain?  Magnify that x100.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Smossy on November 23, 2015, 09:55:17 PM
:yeah:



I sat too long on a bike seat and the "boys" went to sleep.  Ever wake up with your arm numb and tingling to the point of pain?  Magnify that x100.
And focused on your two kiddos. :chuckle:
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Smossy on November 23, 2015, 09:56:26 PM
The mountain bike crowd is a lot like the kuiu  clowns. Gotta have the latest, greatest 
most expensive.
Get on Craigslist and grab a really nice bike for a fraction of new. :tup:
Im part of that crowd thank you very much.  :IBCOOL:
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Coastal_native on November 23, 2015, 09:59:47 PM
Another vote for a TREK.  Bought a 820 several years ago for about 350 - $400.  Put good shift levers and derailleurs on it.  Solid as a rock.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Smossy on November 23, 2015, 10:03:25 PM
Here's a decent one for 350$
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/bik/5329874571.html
Front and rear disc brakes, front suspension, hard tail.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: JimmyHoffa on November 23, 2015, 10:06:12 PM
They make a special seat for the bikes so not to scar up the package.  For coasting down the big hills, I hear that the hydro brakes are the way to go.  Just what I've heard.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: KFhunter on November 23, 2015, 10:08:27 PM
They make a special seat for the bikes so not to scar up the package.  For coasting down the big hills, I hear that the hydro brakes are the way to go.  Just what I've heard.

They have a large hole in the middle so the counter weight pendulums can swing back and forth freely?


Wow, I learned something today.  I had the wrong bicycle seat.  I could slot them suckers in there snug as a bug in a rug

(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.derriair.com%2Fimages%2Fhorseshoe-seat.jpg&hash=7258d848eee213751b269782a3db97b53414ee82)
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: bowman on November 23, 2015, 10:10:09 PM
Hunting on a mountain bike is a blast! It can also be an awesome workout.  Hard-tail and good brakes are a must! If you're like me, don't buy a really expensive one.  They can get abused pretty hard when being used for hunting. 
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: JimmyHoffa on November 23, 2015, 10:10:31 PM
They make a special seat for the bikes so not to scar up the package.  For coasting down the big hills, I hear that the hydro brakes are the way to go.  Just what I've heard.

They have a large hole in the middle so the counter weight pendulums can swing back and forth freely?
Or at least so the blood can still move freely.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Smossy on November 23, 2015, 10:14:18 PM
lmao you guys crack me up.
Ill take this one..

http://www.outsideonline.com/1926201/felt-outfitter-e-fat-bike
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: JimmyHoffa on November 23, 2015, 10:16:29 PM
lmao you guys crack me up.
Ill take this one..

http://www.outsideonline.com/1926201/felt-outfitter-e-fat-bike
For $5K it should come with a rider so you can cruise in the trailer.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Smossy on November 23, 2015, 10:19:40 PM
lmao you guys crack me up.
Ill take this one..

http://www.outsideonline.com/1926201/felt-outfitter-e-fat-bike
For $5K it should come with a rider so you can cruise in the trailer.
I didn't read the description, It damn well might.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Bob33 on November 23, 2015, 10:21:08 PM
lmao you guys crack me up.
Ill take this one..

http://www.outsideonline.com/1926201/felt-outfitter-e-fat-bike
For $5K it should come with a rider so you can cruise in the trailer.
"And you can always carry beer. One hundred pounds of beer. "
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Vo2max on November 23, 2015, 10:29:25 PM
sky is the limit on mtn bikes... If you think bows, rifles and optics are specialized, the world of high quality/high priced bikes is mind blowing. Having been competitively mtn biking and hunting since age 12 it's awesome to combine the two.

My rig is not like most as its a 29" Niner RIP 9 which I have customized... Not cheap at all but I also ride a crap ton in a single year. Much like hunting, you get what you pay for. Sure, you can buy cotton camo at Walmart and you'll Kill animals with the skills you have but having good quality gear helps you stay comfortable and confident your gear is not a limiter.

To answer your question on bikes: what I'd suggest is the following:
- a 29" hard tail which is FITTED TO YOU. Most buy crappy bikes off Craigs List, fit them with a crappy, padded seat and wonder why their nether regions turn into hamburger. If the bike doesn't fit you'll be uncomfortable. Don't fool yourself. Full suspension is great but it also adds weight. Hence, the hard tail suggestion. If you're pulling a Cart which weighs 40+lbs you'll likely be walking it up most hills unless you've got stud-like fitness.

- fat tire bikes are intriguing but rolling resistance is high... Aka "not fast." I like to rock and roll past many others strolling down logging roads... "Thinner" 2.1" tires are a better option but you'll likely need to check tire pressure more often (daily).

- you do not need a huge padded seat if the bike fits. Read that again. You may not even need nut hugger spandex if the bike fits you well.

- Marino wool underwear, with seems not on your taint, helps.

- if you go with full suspension you'll also need to learn about maintainence of the shock... Correct pressures, adjusting the sag etc. so, with that, read bullet #1. Riding full squish isn't just about comfort but also about handling... With a pack, bow and cart that handling changes. Practice riding before you hit the woods.

- price: if you go NEW I'd suggest about 700-1000 and that's for a used rig for most  models/brands or a new Kona kahuna (I believe).

- gears: if you go with a triple chain ring up front, learn to adjust it yourself. I'd suggest you roll with a single or double chain ring but check the rear cassette to ensure that you have a large enough cog to get you efficiently up the steep hills which frequent any elk forests.

- get light weight pedals.

- buy a removal fender so you don't coat yourself with mud.

Good luck and have fun! It's awesome to cover more country on a bike.

Erik
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: fish vacuum on November 24, 2015, 06:42:33 AM
I had to laugh at the description of the cogburn bike on one of the sites selling them. "Until now, most outdoors men and women have not found bikes suitable for hunting and fishing purposes." Oh really? Lol. At least they're honest about the intended terrain..."With help of aggressive 3.8” wide Surly tires, this bike tears through sand, snow, and loose terrain."
For gravel roads, it's hard to beat a 29er. Baby trailers are easy to find second hand, and even a cheap one like mine is rated for 100lbs.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: ruttnbuck on November 24, 2015, 09:27:34 PM
Awesome info guys thanks again!  :hello:
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: snocohunter on November 25, 2015, 03:04:33 PM
I don't hunt off my MTB, yet, but I did learn that a good pair of padded riding shorts goes a long ways to help with saddle sore issues. You can also build up a bit of a callous if you ride enough, and learn to keep your weight off that region.

I prefer clip in pedals also.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Martinhunter on November 27, 2015, 05:32:37 PM
Hey rutnbuck, Kmart has a blue light special on a 18 speed for 69$, that'll get you anywhere you want and never leave you stranded :chuckle: I might go that route and you'll be doing a lot of waiting around for me :tup:
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: ruttnbuck on November 27, 2015, 10:34:17 PM
This is the whole reason I'm going this route is to not be taking all day getting to hunting grounds  :bash:
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: fly-by on November 27, 2015, 11:18:57 PM
If you are riding logging roads you don't need a suspension bike.  A hard tail 29er is simple and will smooth things out.  Don't worry about a huge range of gears, just get something with a super low end.  I use a 1x9 (no front derailleur) with 2.4" tires and have been happy with it.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Alchase on November 28, 2015, 11:04:02 AM
I hunted with a Trek 6000 for a few years. Lessons learned.
If you have not ridden allot don't expect to not be in pain after your first day.
A large bottom gel seat is your friend.
Do not expect to be able to ride efficiently wearing multiple layers of clothing.
West side, removable fenders are a must have. Without them you will be soaked with mud.
Disc brakes are a must have. Going 20+ Down a gravel logging road is a bad time to find out you brake pads a gone.
On the east side, if it is cold, wear ear muffs while riding down hill. They will feel like they are about to fall off if you don't.
A front suspension is awesome! Without your hands will be vibrated to numbness on downhill washboard runs.
Take a lock and long cable, run the cable through both rims and the frame to a thick tree. If there are accessories expect they will be stolen.
I started with a Costco Huffy. That thing was so heavy I usually had to push it up most inclines. When I bought my Trek 6000 used, it was 1/4 the weight of the huffy. You coul pick up the Trek with one hand easily.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Smossy on November 29, 2015, 03:44:12 PM
Any hardcore bikers out there know if I a front/rear disc brake set is swapable to a specialized hard rock?
Buddy has a schwin ditch 3.0 ultra for 50 bucks. Thought it might be worth using for parts if I can swap.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Fungunnin on November 29, 2015, 04:27:45 PM
Any hardcore bikers out there know if I a front/rear disc brake set is swapable to a specialized hard rock?
Buddy has a schwin ditch 3.0 ultra for 50 bucks. Thought it might be worth using for parts if I can swap.
If your bike has tabs for disk brakes they will be swappable. You may need an adapter though. 
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: ruttnbuck on November 30, 2015, 09:30:35 PM
Just wondering if this bike would be with looking into four my needs , what do u guys think?  It's a navaro tupelo 29er
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: ruttnbuck on November 30, 2015, 09:32:28 PM
Size is a med. I'm 5'8"
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Fungunnin on November 30, 2015, 09:46:49 PM
That would be a great dirt road light trail bike if it fits you.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: ruttnbuck on December 04, 2015, 06:47:28 AM
So I'm going to go look at the above bike Saturday morning, what are some things I should look for as far as damaged parts ,it's a pretty new bike so should be ingood shape.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Fungunnin on December 04, 2015, 08:35:49 AM
So I'm going to go look at the above bike Saturday morning, what are some things I should look for as far as damaged parts ,it's a pretty new bike so should be ingood shape.
Flip the bike over so it is resting on the handles and seat. Pedal it with your hand while working the gears. It should shift smoothly between all gears. If not it will need to be tuned to shift well.
Look and the front fork. The seals should be in good shape and not leaking oil onto the stantions. Cycle the fork by holding the breaks and pushing your body weight down on the bars. The fork should operate smoothly and not fell like a pogo stick coming back at you. Look at the tires. If they are worn new tires will cost you $35-$70 each. Check the breaks to make sure they work and slow you smoothly. You should be able to easily lock the breaks if they are working properly.
Lastly just test ride it and see how it feel for you.
Good luck!
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: WAnoob on December 04, 2015, 08:43:10 AM
sky is the limit on mtn bikes... If you think bows, rifles and optics are specialized, the world of high quality/high priced bikes is mind blowing. Having been competitively mtn biking and hunting since age 12 it's awesome to combine the two.

My rig is not like most as its a 29" Niner RIP 9 which I have customized... Not cheap at all but I also ride a crap ton in a single year. Much like hunting, you get what you pay for. Sure, you can buy cotton camo at Walmart and you'll Kill animals with the skills you have but having good quality gear helps you stay comfortable and confident your gear is not a limiter.

To answer your question on bikes: what I'd suggest is the following:
- a 29" hard tail which is FITTED TO YOU. Most buy crappy bikes off Craigs List, fit them with a crappy, padded seat and wonder why their nether regions turn into hamburger. If the bike doesn't fit you'll be uncomfortable. Don't fool yourself. Full suspension is great but it also adds weight. Hence, the hard tail suggestion. If you're pulling a Cart which weighs 40+lbs you'll likely be walking it up most hills unless you've got stud-like fitness.

- fat tire bikes are intriguing but rolling resistance is high... Aka "not fast." I like to rock and roll past many others strolling down logging roads... "Thinner" 2.1" tires are a better option but you'll likely need to check tire pressure more often (daily).

- you do not need a huge padded seat if the bike fits. Read that again. You may not even need nut hugger spandex if the bike fits you well.

- Marino wool underwear, with seems not on your taint, helps.

- if you go with full suspension you'll also need to learn about maintainence of the shock... Correct pressures, adjusting the sag etc. so, with that, read bullet #1. Riding full squish isn't just about comfort but also about handling... With a pack, bow and cart that handling changes. Practice riding before you hit the woods.

- price: if you go NEW I'd suggest about 700-1000 and that's for a used rig for most  models/brands or a new Kona kahuna (I believe).

- gears: if you go with a triple chain ring up front, learn to adjust it yourself. I'd suggest you roll with a single or double chain ring but check the rear cassette to ensure that you have a large enough cog to get you efficiently up the steep hills which frequent any elk forests.

- get light weight pedals.

- buy a removal fender so you don't coat yourself with mud.

Good luck and have fun! It's awesome to cover more country on a bike.

Erik

Any good brands you recommend?  I was going to head to REI in Bham and look around.  I like the looks of the Cannondales for around $700.00.  But I haven't rode bikes in about 13 years, I switched to engine powered two wheels when I was 14 :chuckle:
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: jstone on December 04, 2015, 08:59:14 AM
make sure to get disc brakes.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Fungunnin on December 04, 2015, 09:44:42 AM
So I'm going to go look at the above bike Saturday morning, what are some things I should look for as far as damaged parts ,it's a pretty new bike so should be ingood shape.
I forgot to add ...
Check the break rotors. They should spin freely without rubbing on either side of the break pads when the break are not engaged. If the rotors are warped they will need to be replaced as well.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: DRobnsn on December 04, 2015, 10:13:12 AM
So I'm going to go look at the above bike Saturday morning, what are some things I should look for as far as damaged parts ,it's a pretty new bike so should be ingood shape.

Great advice so far. Ask about tune ups if you haven't already. Also check the wheels to be sure they aren't bent, if they are a little off a good tune up will fix it. A big wobble may not be able to be adjusted out though. 
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: ruttnbuck on December 04, 2015, 11:29:16 AM
Awesome guys, thanks for all the good advice ;) I'm looking forward too getting out and exploring new areas or areas I used to hunt but closed for motorized vehicles now.  I'll probably have to dip into the wife's Christmas decoration fund to buy this but oh well she'll hey over it . :chuckle:
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: WAnoob on December 04, 2015, 11:36:41 AM
I'm getting a bike for this season as well to help me put some distance beyond the gates.  My girlfriend wants to get a bike again as well so I am hoping this will help her get into hunting or at least go scouting with me this season for elk.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: 2labs on December 04, 2015, 11:47:01 AM
I am an old guy and probably ride my Giant hard tail Sedona 3-4 times a week all year. I dis like running or jogging but bikes are great and low impact ( joints )
Only thing I wish my vintage bike had is disc brakes. The pad brakes I have now can make a noise that can be heard for miles. Any one have a solution to that would love to hear it.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: DRobnsn on December 04, 2015, 01:27:06 PM
I am an old guy and probably ride my Giant hard tail Sedona 3-4 times a week all year. I dis like running or jogging but bikes are great and low impact ( joints )
Only thing I wish my vintage bike had is disc brakes. The pad brakes I have now can make a noise that can be heard for miles. Any one have a solution to that would love to hear it.

How old are the pads?
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: 2labs on December 04, 2015, 01:29:20 PM
Guessing 10 years! Probably the problem? Different compounds now?
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: DRobnsn on December 04, 2015, 01:35:44 PM
Guessing 10 years! Probably the problem? Different compounds now?

I'm sure the age is adding to the issue  :chuckle: but there are several other factors also. Here's an article that explains it better than I could. The bike they are using is a road bike but when it come to rim breaks it shouldn't matter.

http://www.bikeradar.com/us/gear/article/workshop-step-by-step-guide-to-quiet-rim-braking-22677/
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: 2labs on December 04, 2015, 02:12:42 PM
Thanks, good article. I now have a project for this weekend. :tup:
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: Vo2max on December 11, 2015, 09:08:36 PM
Sorry for the delay...

Brands: I have a prference toward higher end gear... Not going to lie. Bows, guns, bikes etc. I have champagne taste with an "improving" wallet :). I don't kind spending money on gear as its my hobbies which drive me. Some like gambling, some like strip clubs or golf... I buy outdoor gear. Anyway, I digress.

Kona bike store in Bham has a great selection of 29'er HT mtn bikes with front suspension.

Novara(o?) at REI isn't so bad... Your drive train is key. Don't go low-end.

Canondale always makes great products... Hard to argue against their frames.

Specialized... Paying a lot for the name.

Scott... Don't know much personally.

Bikes are like rifles... Some one KIMBER, some love Ruger, others, Winchester. Ride a few. Buy one and love it.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: syoungs on December 11, 2015, 09:24:38 PM
I bought a trek 29er hardtail this summer, I'm absolutely amazed with it, I'm closer to 400# then 3, and even thrashing on it and just mashing pedals I've had no problems. Rims are true still, and the breaks are fine. I will upgrade to hydralics this spring, and put on a better fork with a lockout until I get back to fighting weight, but both are serviceable as is.
Title: Re: Hunting by mountain bike
Post by: pope on December 26, 2015, 08:14:38 PM
Is the pad noise only on wet days? If you're getting noise on dry days, you may notice when you squeeze the brake lever, the front edge of the pad contacts the rim first, causing vibration. New pads or trading the pads side for side may help. Older bikes often don't have welded tabs for mounting disc brakes, which is too bad because disc brakes work much better in wet weather.
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